While you may be busy putting the current issue of your newsletter to bed, you will often times during this process uncover outstanding information for future issues. You may even find that some of the content you slated for the current publication simply won’t fit.

Keep all of this potential content neat and tidy in an “idea file.” Idea files are an excellent way to help you map out future issues of your newsletter while helping to keep track of any thoughts that might surface during editorial brainstorming sessions.

Store your ideas in a binder, accordion file or even on your computer’s hard drive. For quick reference, be sure to name your files according to upcoming issues of your publication.

Keep your idea file stocked with such items as:

• Photos
• Article ideas
• Already written back-up articles
• Web site URLs that spark ideas for content
• List of content resources
• E-mails from potential contributors

Not only will your backlog of ideas be helpful for future issues, it can also save you during any last-minute editorial upheavals. Idea files can definitely help fill any gaps!